What is I-O?

Industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology is the scientific study of working and the application of that science to workplace issues facing individuals, teams, and organizations.
The scientific method is applied to investigate issues of critical relevance to individuals, businesses, and society.

Employees don’t just go to the office anymore. While traditional work meant hours spent at a brick and mortar office, today’s workforce is no longer confined to the cubicle as organizations increasingly utilize virtual work and collaboration, social media, and technology for recruitment, selection, performance, and management.

“The Virtual Workforce: Designing, Leading, and Optimizing” will bring together thought leaders from academia and practice October 14-15, 2011 at the historic Seelbach Hilton in Louisville, Kentucky in a day-and-a-half event focusing on the exciting topic of the virtual workforce.This year’s LEC will cover a wide range of issues, including presentations on social business, people analytics, virtual collaboration, unified talent management, managing global teams virtually, telecommuting, technology for an aging workforce, enterprise 2.0, advancements in training, and best practices in developing and implementing technology–enhanced assessment. Courtney Hunt (founder of the Social Media in Organizations [SMinOrgs] Community) and Wayne Cascio (University of Colorado Denver) will serve as keynote speakers.

The Leading Edge Consortium is unique in its approach by bringing together leading-edge thinkers – practitioners, researchers, and HR executives – to examine issues in an intimate setting that fosters stimulating dialogue among colleagues. Each presentation takes place in general session, a setting conducive to interaction with presenters and networking with leaders in the teamwork field. This event is a terrific opportunity for practitioners to seek guidance, knowledge, and wisdom from mentors who have “been there and done that.”

The LEC will once again offer the Friday night networking dinners where attendees can select from an assortment of area restaurants to sample Louisville cuisine while enjoying great discussion in the company of new and old friends. Registration includes lunch on Friday and Saturday, breaks, and receptions on Thursday and Friday evening.

For those interested in furthering their professional endeavors in addition to taking practical knowledge back to their organization, the LEC offers continuing education credits through APA as well as the HR Certification Institute.*

For the latest information, including an agenda, speaker list, presentation abstracts, CE information, and bios, visit the Leading Edge Consortium page at www.siop.org/lec.

*SIOP is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. SIOP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Additionally, SIOP holds HR Certification Institute Approved Provider status.